The secret of reciprocity: how giving leads to greater engagement.

Examples of reci­procity in action:

• Daily life: A friend buys you coffee, so you feel the urge to pay next time.
• At work: A manager gives the team a sincere compliment, which makes employees go the extra mile.
• Business context: A customer receives an unexpected gift, making them feel more connected and loyal to the brand.
• Social inter­ac­tions: You’re invited to dinner and want to return the favour.

Reci­procity is everywhere – and it works. In a business envi­ron­ment, a small gesture can have a big impact on motivation and per­for­mance.

1. Loyalty and connection

Appre­ci­a­tion fuels trust. Employees who feel seen stay longer and put in more effort. Research (Smith, Johnson & Lee, 2023) shows that reci­procity has a direct impact on per­for­mance and engagement. A well-chosen gift creates a positive dynamic. Those who feel recognised are more likely to go the extra mile.

But not every gesture has the same effect. The power of appre­ci­a­tion depends on the rela­tion­ship and context. Long-term, stable working rela­tion­ships strengthen this effect. And social con­nec­tions? They play a key role too. Employees who feel connected to their colleagues and managers are not only more productive, but also remain loyal for longer. A culture built on appre­ci­a­tion ensures more col­lab­o­ra­tion, less employee turnover and a positive working atmosphere.

2. Increased motivation and per­for­mance

Reci­procity is a powerful motivator. Employees who feel valued want to give something back. They go the extra mile, take more initiative and show more ownership. This leads to a culture where employees not only perform their tasks, but also contribute to improve­ments and inno­va­tions. Appre­ci­a­tion creates a work envi­ron­ment where motivation and per­for­mance go hand in hand.

1. Celebrate milestones

A work anniver­sary, successful completion of a project or reaching a goal – these moments all deserve attention. A personal gift or sincere token of appre­ci­a­tion not only makes a difference for the employee, but also strength­ens the employer – employee bond.

2. Structure your appre­ci­a­tion

Small gestures have a big impact. A hand­writ­ten card, sincere ​‘thank you’ or a gift when they least expect it shows that dedication and commitment do not go unnoticed.

3. Show spon­ta­neous recog­ni­tion

Appre­ci­a­tion doesn’t always have to be planned. It’s the unexpected gifts that make the difference. Whether it’s a compliment after a busy period or a token of appre­ci­a­tion to thank someone for their hard work, it’s important that employees feel like they matter.

4. Per­son­alise your gift

Appre­ci­a­tion only feels genuine when it’s personal. Adding your company logo or colours is just the tip of the iceberg. Tailor your gift to the recipient: no wine for someone who doesn’t drink; no chocolate for someone on a diet. Choose the right moment too. For example, an Easter gift isn’t appro­pri­ate for someone cel­e­brat­ing Eid al-Fitr. A customised gift shows that you really care about your employees.

5. Use Kadonation Select

With Kadonation Select, you’re not just giving your employees a gift. You’re giving them the feeling that they’re appre­ci­at­ed. Whether it’s a small token or more recog­ni­tion for a bigger achieve­ment, we help you make appre­ci­a­tion tangible.

Reci­procity starts small, but the impact is great. Do you want appre­ci­a­tion in your organ­i­sa­tion to be integral, effortless and successful? Kadonation will help you on your way. Let’s build a strong culture of recog­ni­tion and motivation. We’re ready to discuss fresh ideas over a cup of coffee.

I would like to schedule a meeting.